epaulette

British  

/ ˈɛpəˌlɛt, -lɪt /

noun

1. a piece of ornamental material on the shoulder of a garment, esp a military uniform

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Etymology

Origin of epaulette

C18: from French épaulette, from épaule shoulder, from Latin spatula shoulder blade; see _spatula

Explanation

An epaulette is a shoulder piece that's part of many military uniforms. It's a type of colorful decoration that sometimes signifies rank. If you look at a military uniform, there are many things you might see, such as stripes and medals. Another is epaulettes, which are ornamentations found on the shoulders. Epaulettes are usually colorful, and they often convey a higher rank. You probably wouldn't find epaulettes on a foot soldier, but you probably would on a general. Epaulettes will vary in size and color depending on the rank and branch of the military. Epaulette comes from a French word for shoulder.

Example Sentences

According to Prof Rummer, epaulette sharks seem to have evolved an unusually efficient system.

From Science Daily • Jan. 21, 2026

An epaulette which includes a precious stone known as the Dresden White Diamond is still missing.

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2022

Pieces still missing include an epaulette on which a precious stone known as the Dresden White Diamond was mounted.

From Reuters • Dec. 17, 2022

A few species of epaulette sharks have evolved to move their pectoral fins in the front and pelvic fins in the back to plod along outside the water at low tide.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 21, 2022

The epaulette worn some years ago is useful as giving width to narrow shoulders.

From Social Life or, The Manners and Customs of Polite Society by Cooke, Maud C.